Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119358D) is a Diploma delivered by Pacific College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students seeking to work in early childhood education settings such as preschools, long day care centres, and family day care. The course covers child development, program planning, safety, and inclusion. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 02668F), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. All CRICOS-registered courses are listed on the official CRICOS register, providing a reliable source of information for prospective students. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare courses and providers across Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered institutions offering 26,433 courses. This Diploma is a popular choice for those passionate about working with children and seeking a career in early childhood education.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119358D) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Pacific College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02668F, Private) over 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). The course is in the field of Education: Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It does not include a work component and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The VET national code is CHC50125. Language of instruction is English. Delivery locations include Pacific College (Auburn) (RTO Operations) in Auburn, NSW, and Pacific College Sydney City Campus in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and a vibrant multicultural environment. Auburn is a western suburb with excellent public transport links. The cost of living in Sydney is relatively high, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$300-500, groceries A$80-150, and transport A$40-60. However, costs vary based on lifestyle and location. This course prepares graduates to work as early childhood educators or managers in a range of settings.
This Diploma covers key areas of early childhood education and care, including child development from birth to school age, designing and implementing curriculum, fostering inclusive environments, building relationships with families and communities, and managing children's health and safety. Students learn to plan activities that promote learning through play, observe and document children's progress, and support children with additional needs. The course aligns with the National Quality Framework and Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. While specific syllabus details are set by Pacific College, graduates typically gain skills in leadership, communication, and reflective practice. This field of education is critical to Australia's early childhood sector, which employs over 150,000 people nationwide. International students who complete this Diploma may be eligible for post-study work rights and pathways to further study in education or social work.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification; there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Study mode is typically full-time, on-campus at one of the two delivery locations: Pacific College (Auburn) or Pacific College Sydney City Campus. Students should expect a mix of theory classes and practical assessment tasks. As a CRICOS-registered course, the duration is fixed and meets student visa requirements. International students on a Subclass 500 student visa must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$16,000 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$850, bringing the estimated total to A$16,850. Please note: these fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Pacific College at www.pct.edu.au. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500-700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$29,710 per year (as per Department of Home Affairs). The visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (as of 2025). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting carefully and checking the provider's website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
Entry requirements for this Diploma typically include an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English language test). Applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent. No prior early childhood qualification is required, but a keen interest in working with children is essential. Some providers may require a pre-training assessment or interview. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; check with Pacific College for any bridging programs. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly for specific entry criteria, as requirements can vary.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may choose to undertake voluntary work or internships outside of study hours. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It's important to note that any work must not compromise course attendance or academic progress. For practical experience, graduates can seek employment in early childhood settings after completing the qualification.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two campuses in New South Wales: Pacific College (Auburn) (RTO Operations) in Auburn, NSW, and Pacific College Sydney City Campus in Sydney, NSW. Auburn is a diverse suburb about 20 km west of Sydney's CBD, with train and bus connections. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200,000 international students. Both campuses provide access to modern learning facilities. The state of NSW has 600+ CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than other Australian cities; see the course overview for indicative weekly expenses. Students should consider transport, accommodation, and lifestyle when choosing a campus.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Pacific College, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity, and English language proficiency. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. Post-study work rights may be available for graduates of this Diploma if it meets the length and level requirements. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Pacific College Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Pacific College (CRICOS 02668F) is registered to deliver this course (CRICOS code 119358D).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements such as English test scores (IELTS 5.5-6.0) and academic qualifications. Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, passport, English test results, personal statement). Submit your application via Pacific College's website: www.pct.edu.au. Be mindful of application deadlines and any offer conditions.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, pay the required deposit and receive your CoE. Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Visa processing times vary. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or use official resources.
Sydney is Australia's largest and most culturally diverse city, with a strong job market in early childhood education. It offers a dynamic lifestyle with beaches, parks, and world-class amenities. However, the cost of living is high. As an international student, you'll need to budget carefully for rent, transport, and utilities. Sydney has an extensive public transport network, making it easy to travel between campuses and the city. The city has over 600 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you plenty of options. Before deciding, consider your budget, preferred learning environment, and career goals. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to compare courses and locations across Australia.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Pacific College's website at www.pct.edu.au for the latest course information and to apply.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Pacific College Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.